Raising Freethinkers

February 1, 2009
Parents who choose to raise their children without religion still face life issues for which religion often supplies answers. This guide to nonreligious parenting is a practical follow-up to McGowan's "Parenting Beyond Belief". Primarily in a question-and-answer format, McGowan and educators and scholars Molleen Matsumura, Amanda Metskas, and Jan Devor emphasize respect, independent thinking, and secular humanism when dealing with ethics, death, rituals, holidays, sexual education, and a religious society. Rather than dismissing religion, the authors advocate exploration and understanding of all religions and mythologies. Each chapter concludes with suggested activities to engage children's minds and hearts. Also included are descriptive reviews of recommended books, web sites, films, and other materials. Recognizing the need for community that a church often fulfills, the authors refer to Unitarian Universalism, Ethical Societies, or Jewish Humanism congregations. Web sites and blogs for freethinking, humanist, and atheist groups are listed. Many books exist about religious and ethical parenting, but this unique resource will help parents looking for useful ideas and information on being a nonreligious family. Recommended for public libraries.Janet Clapp, Athens-Clarke Cty. Lib., GA

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